FSU's future rests with Fisher

Tallahassee, FL (CSTV U-WIRE) -- With Florida State expected to hold a press conference at 11 a.m. Monday in regard to head football coach Bobby Bowden and offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher - who ESPN says sources have confirmed will succeed Bowden when he retires - it seems the Seminoles are on the cusp of a new era. An era that will almost certainly be welcomed with very mixed emotions.

On one side FSU fans could soon say goodbye to a living legend whose contract is believed to have been extended for one more season. A man that's won more games than any other coach in Division I college football history, guided the Seminoles to both of it's national championships, 31 consecutive winnings seasons and 26 straight bowl games.

On the other hand, the Garnet and Gold faithful have a young and fiery offensive mind in Fisher, who many believe could recruit the Seminoles back to the promised land of the nation's elite. An offensive coordinator who has had a very positive impact in his first year at Florida State and who has been sought after as a head coach by several other programs already.

The fact that Bowden has been so successful here is obviously what makes the situation so complicated. The university simply cannot disrespect a figure that has done so much for its football program and I support that reasoning entirely.

Some don't like the thought of change - while others like it too much - but for me, I believe it's the best scenario Seminole fans could ask for. I do believe that Bowden's era has passed with the every-day evolution of college football and that Fisher has the coaching potential to slip into the legend's big shoes slowly, but surely.

While the Seminoles endured a difficult season in 2007, a less strenuous schedule, a more experienced team and the players' second year with a boatload of new assistant coaches, gives next season an optimistic ring to it. One, that if it will truly be Bowden's 33rd and final season at Florida State, could very possibly send the college football icon out on the high note that he deserves.

At the same time, announcing Fisher as Bowden's successor leaves the Seminoles with a lasting vision rather than a question mark of uncertainty - a factor that could make a significant and immediate impact on FSU's recruiting efforts and lead to a smoother transition.

Furthermore, a transition to Fisher, a guy that is now familiar with the university, his staff and most importantly his players, is the best way to go in my opinion. While some question Fisher's ability to take over, anyone who's been around him can see the kind of respect the players have for him, how much he demands from his guys and the knowledge he has for the game.

Fisher, his character and his work ethic are right for the job in my mind. Will there still be a period of transition? Most likely. But consider the Seminoles lucky to have so much stability in the program for as long they have - a remarkable stability that we may never witness again.